Miracord “In Water”
Psychedelic band from Oklahoma City that compares well to The Mother Hips and has a variety of sixties influences, from The Beatles to the Animals. Miracord is lead by guitarist/vocalist Dean Avants and assisted by Dave Spindle (bass), Ryan Jones (organ and backing vocals), Rob Martin (drums) and Jeff Richardson (backing vocals).The swirling guitar riff on “New Religion” opens the album and sets the tone. The lone guitar strum and spacious sound on “Song of a Mason” is a trippy ballad that will impress most pysche-pop fans. “In Water” was released exactly one year later on the 4th anniversary of Syd Barrett’s death, whose influence can be heard throughout the album. It really comes through on “Corporate Coward” and the power pop of “To Mary and Mandy” is a riff-filled good time in the style of The Who. Even more impressive, this album is a FREE download at CD Baby for a limited time.
The Hot Toddies “Get Your Heart On”
This is an Oakland based collective of melodic women set to neo-surf beats, kind of a lo-fi version of The GoGo’s or Pippettes. The songs are deceptively simple and infectious. Heidi, Erin, Jessica and Sylvia have been playing music, drinking whiskey and writing songs together since 2005. The sweet harmonies and oft funny lyrics of “Max’s Mankini” will get your attention. The vocals have an innocence, but the lyrics are mainly about boys and drinking best heard on “Only With You.” It’s like Malibu Barbie had a few beers, got up on the table and started dancing. The irreverent lyrics touch on gluten-free lesbians (“Celiac Love Songs”) and the lead singer of Alkaline Trio (“Matt Skina Sandwich”). On the latter tune and “Keep On Running” the song is fleshed out with a strong lead guitar. More highlights include “Rain or Shine” and the ukulele lead “Summertime Dream” with it’s weaving angelic vocals. As the Japanese say it’s all so “kawaii” so how can you resist.